Allergies

Seasonal Allergy Treatments

Seasonal allergic rhinitis cases develop when the season of ragweed allergy begins in mid-August. Nearly 36 million Americans are suffering from allergies triggered by millions of pollen present in air that travels hundreds of miles.

There is no cure for allergies but many over the counter medications are available or prescribed by the doctor that helps in controlling allergic symptoms. Annoying symptoms of allergic rhinitis include throat irritation, nasal congestion, watery and itchy eyes and sneezing which can be controlled by using allergy shots, prescription nasal sprays, antihistamines or other drug combinations.

You must know the underlying cause of allergies to control your allergies. This is the best way to control allergies. Following are some of the best seasonal allergy treatment options.

Seasonal Allergy Treatments:

Here are some of the best treatments for seasonal allergy :

Antihistamines:

You may get antihistamines in many forms. They are available in liquid, tablets or capsule forms that you may take orally for controlling allergic reactions and the symptoms of itchy nose, itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. Also topical antihistamines are available in the form of nasal sprays and eye drops that give same effect. In some cases, these drugs may trigger drowsiness. You must be cautious while driving, using dangerous equipment or machinery or any activity which needs concentration. However, the physician may guide you in the dosage of the medicine.

Nasal sprays and Decongestants:

Seek the medical practitionerâ€™s advice regarding decongestants. If decongestants help in controlling sinus or nasal congestion triggered by ragweed allergic rhinitis, you can use them under the supervision of the doctor. Decongestants unclog the stuffy nose and give relief from sinus pressure and other annoying symptoms.

Decongestants can be obtained in various forms. Over the counter oral decongestant liquid, tablets or capsules can be obtained. You must be aware of the adverse effects of these drugs which include palpitations, insomnia, irritability, tremors or even worsen hypertension. Topical decongestant nasal sprays can also be obtained over the counter however you must be cautious while taking these drugs as they may trigger â€˜rebound nasal congestionâ€™ if the nose becomes addicted to decongestant nasal spray.

Other medicines such as antihistamines, steroids and anticholinergics may be delivered through nasal spray for controlling the symptoms triggered by allergic rhinitis. Intranasal steroids aid in controlling the nasal membrane inflammation caused by allergic reaction. Anticholinergic agent helps in controlling the nasal secretions which trigger post nasal drip and runny nose and the antihistamines block histamines that cause runny nose, sneezing and itching.

Allergy shots:

Allergy shots are also referred to as allergen immunotherapy. These shots increase your tolerance to various allergens. Often these shots are given to those suffering from moderate to severe allergic reactions which are not controlled by taking many medicines, symptomatic more than 3 months in a year or if you cannot avoid the exposure to allergens totally. Allergy shots donâ€™t treat some symptoms but helps to tolerate exposure to the allergens such as ragweed pollen. The dosage and the times you get the shot depend on the severity of allergies. Ensure that you report shortness of breath or discomfort to the allergist such that he gives you appropriate dosage.

These are some of the seasonal allergy treatments. If the symptoms do not improve with these over the counter medications, consult the health care provider or allergist immediately to avoid complications.